Name: Vraj Patel

Major: Computer science with a minor in economics

Previous THON Experience:

THON 2024: Graphic Design Captain

THON 2025: Media Relations – SME Captain

What made you want to apply for a director position for THON 2026?

I wanted to be a Director for THON 2026 because being a PR Captain for the past two years has shown me the incredible beauty and reach of this organization. I’ve seen firsthand how we’re able to uplift and inspire others to join us in the fight. I want to continue making an impact in a greater way, continuing to share the magic of this organization with even more audiences. Serving as a director on the Executive Committee allows me to continue fighting for a future filled with hope that one day we will dance in celebration of a cure.

What are your responsibilities as a THON Director?

As the PR Media Management Director, I am responsible for promoting THON’s mission by expanding our national reach while ensuring our current donors, supporters, and volunteers remain informed and engaged through strategic media and written communication. Whether it’s working with external stakeholders, influencers, or national media outlets, I focus on building strong relationships with media partners to share the impactful stories of our organization while maintaining THON’s brand integrity and image.

What do you want to implement in your position this year that differs from years past?

This year, I want to focus on expanding our reach and deepening engagement both with our external audience and within our own community. I hope to build stronger relationships with influencers and media partners to help share THON’s story on a broader scale while also creating more opportunities for direct community engagement through interactive content and storytelling initiatives.

What makes your committee so cool, fun, and/or important?

PR is such a fun committee filled with creative individuals from diverse backgrounds who use their experiences and skills to make a real impact. The opportunity to express creativity through our work has been one of the most rewarding parts of being in PR.

What are the overall goals you hope to reach with your committee for THON 2026?

A huge goal I have this year is to expand our national and regional reach. I want to work with influencers, news outlets, and external stakeholders to engage new and diverse audiences to further spread THON’s mission.

Why do you THON?

I THON for more smiles, laughs, and memories.

What’s your favorite THON memory?

This past THON Weekend, I helped coordinate an interaction through my role as an MR Captain with one of my co-captains between one of my organization’s THON families and a social media creator the child deeply admired. The moment she saw her, she immediately burst into tears and ran to hug her, completely overwhelmed with emotion. Watching that moment unfold was incredibly moving and truly captured the magic of this organization. It was a moment filled with so much joy and emotion that it brought tears to nearly everyone around us, and it’s something I will never forget.

Per Onward State tradition, if you could be any dinosaur, which one would you be and why?

A Stegosaurus.